Ole Miss revealed on Monday that it will erect a statue honoring Archie Manning outside Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The monument will be positioned south of the football stadium and north of the Olivia and Archie Manning Performance Center.
Manning, who hails from Mississippi, served as the Rebels’ quarterback from 1968 to 1970. During his tenure, he accumulated 4,753 passing yards and 823 rushing yards. His 56 total touchdowns remain the sixth-highest in school history. He earned All-SEC honors in 1969 and 1970, was named a second-team All-American in 1969, and placed third in the 1970 Heisman Trophy balloting.
Athletic Director Keith Carter issued a statement emphasizing Manning’s significance to the institution. “Archie Manning is one of the most iconic figures in the history of Ole Miss and a person whose impact extends far beyond the football field,” Carter said. “His legacy as an Ole Miss Rebel, a leader, and a role model inspired generations of student-athletes, alumni, and fans.”
Following his college career, Manning was selected second overall in the 1971 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. He appeared in 13 NFL seasons, earning two Pro Bowl selections before his retirement after the 1984 season. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989 and became the first Ole Miss player to have his number retired.
Manning and his wife Olivia have remained active supporters of the university since his playing days ended. His son Eli starred for the Rebels from 2000 to 2003, while another son, Peyton, became a Pro Football Hall of Famer after his college career at Tennessee. His grandson Arch Manning currently plays for Texas.
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